Monday, December 29, 2008

Harvey Mackay's Column

Harvey Mackay's column is included in the weekly Hartford Business Journal. I am a faithful reader because he always offers great insight and ends with a moral. His December 15th column really got my interest. Let me quote his opening statement "Whenever I come across a parable - or any little story - that can easily illustrate a point I wish to make, I love to use it." He then proceeded to tell a story of a very clever rabbit outwitting many other animals in the forest. The wise owl sums up the story with the moral, "It doesn't matter how stupid your thesis is, as long as you have the right advisor."

More than once as I led a story workshop for businesses I was asked to use only "business" story examples or I might lose the interst of the audience. I would not be taken seriously. What could a folk tale offer? Plenty! My favorite example is the Emperor's New Clothes. If you forgot the story take a quick read and think about how it demonstrates the principle of a leader who doesn't want to hear bad news and gets a reputation for "shooting the messenger."

Too often business people overlook the power of good story telling in communications. Story telling is seen as entertainment for children. Let's all learn from Harvey Mackay and learn to tell great stories to help make our message memorable. Include the story even if it is a folk tale. Who says you can't entertain and educate at the same time.

Saturday, December 27, 2008

Peter Pan

I sit here on this holiday weekend watching Peter Pan remembering how important it is to have a storyteller. Peter Pan asks Wendy to come to Neverland with him so that she can tell stories to the lost boys. I had forgotten that she also hung out with Hook for awhile so that she could tell stories to the pirates. The pirates are all supposedly adults and sat totally enthralled with Wendy's stories. The final battle is raging and Hook takes Wendy aside and assures her that there is still room for a storyteller. She rejects his offer and the battle continues.

It makes me smile watching this. It also makes me wonder when we as a culture decided that storytelling was only for children. Adults love stories too. It is too bad that there are so few venues for entertaining adults. It is encouraging though to see many businesses recognizing the importance of story in marketing. Storytellers are important to your marketing message. If you can't tell a good story find someone who can help.

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Obama Story collection

I just recently read an old post I got from a listserv I belong to and was quite happy to see that our President Elect is a fan of story. To help him to continue his communication with the American people he is collecting stories from individuals. There is a website (http://change.gov/page/s/yourstory) that allows people to post their stories. The homepage reads:
An American Moment: Your Story
Start right now. Tell us your story in your own words about what this
campaign and this election means to you. Share your hopes for an Obama
Administration and a government for the people.

We all have a story to tell and it seems that someone is listening.

Monday, December 15, 2008

Slow down the Hustle and Bustle

One of my local papers had a story on the book, The Elf on the Shelf. It says that it is a book that will delight children of all ages. I haven't read it yet so I don't know for sure but the article goes on to say that it "enables families to set aside the hustle and bustle of the holidays for a few minutes and spend quality time with ones they love". Books will do that but it is the next line I particularly liked. "Children acquire all the benefits from reading and story comprehension, imagination and role playing, as well as learn the important lessons that good behavior brings just rewards."

This blog is a diversion from stories in business but I thought it was important to include these notes on the importance of story going way back to childhood and the continuing importance for connecting families. If you agree that stories are important for a child's development then doesn't follow that if that is the way we learn as children it is also a great way for adults to learn?

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Dr. Norman Vincent Peale and his stories

Recently I received an e-newsletter from Chris Clarke-Epstein. She speaks/teaches on change and always has some good words of wisdom. In this particular issue it wasn't so much the change point that caught my eye but the opening sentences. Chris says that she always liked reading booklets from Dr. Norman Vincet Peale because they started with a story that she enjoyed "never realizing that I was learning a lesson."

That is the beauty of stories, they teach without preaching. We enjoy and learn at the same time. Stories tend to relax us and entertain us which puts us in a great mind for learning.

Monday, November 17, 2008

Stories for Web sites

Recently I reconnected with a high school friend. We chatted briefly about what he is doing now. He mentioned that he does some consulting and was just doing some work on his website when he got hung up on the story he wanted to tell. That's as far as he got, he couldn't think of the story.

Sometimes that happens, talking to someone else can help. They might be able to tell you the story they have heard you tell that made an impression. Or you might find yourself telling the same story over and over again. That's the story I would start to develop for the website. Obviously it means something to you and if it does the passion will come through. Passion on your website is good.

If you need help with your story just start talking to friends and listen to the stories and reactions, you'll find the right one

Saturday, November 15, 2008

Gray's Anatomy

Once you start looking for stories they pop up everywhere. This past week on Gray's Anatomy a homeless man was brought in with serious injuries. He was refusing surgery and frustrating the surgeons. Finally one of the doctors asked what his story was. He answered pretty mcuh the same way most people do when asked that question, he said he had no story. The doctor followed it up with that of course he had a story, we all have a story. How true. All of our stories are different but they are important.

Remember we all have stories and they are important to know and share.

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

Power Point with a story

I just finished reading a Toastmaster's International magazine article about the use of Power Point and story. The author was making stated that power point can be useful when presenting a financial topic, but telling the story of the financials is just as important. His suggestion is to figure out what it is the data is saying and then tell that story, throw out any slides or data that does not pertain to your main story. "Tell your story with simplicity and carity." Numbers can help but you can't forget the story or your audience is likely to forget the message.

Use the power of story to point out the important data in your presentation.

Saturday, October 11, 2008

Stories Catching On

I have recently received notices from one of the local libraries on business seminars they are running. The first intrigued me because it was a two part session about the use of your story in marketing, brochures, websites etc. I am thinking people are beginning to catch on to the importance of telling a good story, especially when more than 40 people showed up for the evening program.

This week the library is advertising tales of the business. Entrepreneurs are telling their stories about how they started their businesses. Stories abound!

What's your story?

Saturday, October 4, 2008

Business Week's Combating Complacency

Businessweek magazine for the 15th of September had an article titled "Combating Complacency". It really is a book excerpt from John P. Kotter's book "A Sense of Urgency". Mr. Kotter is making the point that business communication must engage the heart as well as the mind. He then points out that the best way to do this is by using stories.

If you get a chance check out the article; it is a short 2 page read.

www.carolmon.com

Wednesday, September 24, 2008

Stories as Elevator Pitch

Recently I was reading a local news article about a new business. Towards the end of the article I found this little gem:

In launching his new business, Mr. Rischall said “part of what
I’ve been doing is I’ve been meeting with people.”
At marketing meetings he is required to boil what he does
down to a 30- or 60-second presentation, so he often tells
stories about how he’s helped clients.

I'm glad he has found the power of story and is using it to promote his business. How about you, do you have stories you can tell to promote your business?

Sunday, September 14, 2008

More on the Elevator Pitch Contest

This past Thursday (9/11) the Secretary of State held its first ever finals in the Elevator Pitch Contest. The three contestants were given one minute to tell the audience of nearly 100 what they do. Interestingly enough all three contestants used mini stories in their pitches. They also included some facts and figures about the business but the main thrust was the story!

Just one more use for stories in the business world. Include a story about the inspiration for why you started the business or an inspirational client to punch up your own 30 second commercial,elevator pitch.

Tuesday, September 2, 2008

Quotes on story

Short and sweet, here are two quotes that struck me.

Director Steven Spielberg said, "People have forgotten how to tell a
story. Stories don't have a middle or an end any more. They usually
have a beginning that never stops beginning."

Poet Maya Angelou said, "There is no greater agony than bearing an
untold story inside you."

Monday, September 1, 2008

WOW Stories

Some time ago I read "The Elements of Persuasion: Use Storytelling to Pitch Better, Sell Faster & Win More Business" by Richard Maxwell and Robert Dickman. A great book but one piece really stuck with me, the WOW stories from Ritz Carlton. Recently I had need to quote it and found a couple interesting links on the web. The first one listed here is from Business Week online and tells quite a bit about the management at the hotel
http://www.businessweek.com/smallbiz/content/feb2008/sb20080229_347490.htm

The other link is to a piece directly from the book. I highly recommend reading this book if you have ever been in the position of needing to persuade someone of something.
http://www.anecdote.com.au/archives/2008/08/imbuing_your_wo.html

Think about creating your own WOW stories, for customers, family, business start up, just about anything really.

Sunday, August 31, 2008

The Vonage Story

I am a Vonage Phone user. Like so many other businesses they send emails every once in awhile to update subscribers. This time I read through it a bit and noticed a sidebar that said "Tell Us Your Story!". It then went on
Email us at MyStory@vonage.com and you could be featured in our next edition.

In each newsletter a subscriber and his/her story is featured. The stories cover topics like how Vonage is used or what it has meant to the subscriber.

Advertising with a story, great idea, people can relate to it and it gives the hope of having your voice heard in a public way. A true win/win for everyone.

Think about that for your next marketing campaign, incorporate customer stories.

Saturday, August 30, 2008

The Use of Story in Video

Below is a link to a webiste for a video production company. The author makes great points about the need to tell your story when producing a video. If you are thinking of using video in your marketing then you absolutely should read the attached. Remember it's all about the story.

http://biznik.com/articles/make-video-work

Thursday, August 28, 2008

Obama's Story

The Democratic National convention just ran a campaign piece on Obama. Near the beginning Obama's voiceover says "I had to find my story" before I could understand and help others. It was a compelling piece all told through story so you know I loved it. Let's see what McCain's campaign comes up with now. He also has a compelling story.

Thursday, August 21, 2008

More on the 30 second commercial

In the last post I talked about the Elevator Pitch contest that the State of Connecticut and Microsoft held for small businesses. 26 participants each gave a one minute pitch on their business. I learned a lot at the contest including how long a minute is when people are talking about stuff you are not interested in. That's why I strongly advocate setting your pitch to know more than 30 seconds. If you are interesting or if your companion is interested in your business then you can expand on your pitch and fill in a lot of details. Keep it short and simple.

www.carolmon.com

Thursday, August 14, 2008

Elevator Pitch/30 Second Commerical

The Elevator Pitch sometimes called a 30 second commercial seems to be catching on. There are tons of networking events for business people to attend and get to know other like minded folks. Frequently you are asked to stand and tell the group what you do in 30 seconds or less. The Elevator Pitch concept was developed to help you think like that. It assumes that you are in an elevator with an executive or prospect and you have just enough time to pitch from when you enter to when he/she exits. Even if you are not lucky enough to be in an elevator to pitch your business being able to say succinctly what it is you do is important.

Think about some of the nightmares you may have experienced at networking events or associaiton meetings. You nicely ask what it is some one does and they drone on for 2 minutes telling you way more than you had ever hoped to hear. Are you guilty of the same thing?

This morning in Connecticut there was an Elevator Pitch Contest sponsored by the State and Microsoft. 26 business owners and supporters came together to participate in the first (annual?) contest. The rules were strict, you had one minute to get your point across. At one minute you were asked to stop no matter where you were in your presentation. The first 13 people were all cut off mid sentence. It was a great lesson for many in how long they normally go on speaking without even realizing it.

The second half of the group was far more succinct and many had great messages. There were 3 winners who will go on to compete in a State Showcase in September. One of the winners was great because she told the us about the inspiration behind her business and her philosophy. She was totally engaing for the first 30 seconds. Then she went into a bit of a sales pitch but everyone listened because she had us with the story.

Personally I thought this was a great exercise for small businesses because a lot of people got to hear about their business and it really informed the owner about how well/poorly they communicate. I would love to see this type of event repeated for more business owners. They work so hard and sometimes forget that they must sell as well. To often it seems haphazard. Don't be like that, be prepared. Think about a short 30 second commercial that is engaging and interesting to use the next time some one says, "So what do you do?"

www.carolmon.com

Monday, August 11, 2008

Stories to Engage Teams and Ignite Change

On September 25th and 26th in Florida there will be a workshop for leaders on the use of stories. On the notice I received it said that (in part) what you will learn is:
How to Command any audience using the art of storytelling
How to identify the right story for the right audience
How to improve your leadership skills by telling powerful stories
etc.

It is supposed to be very hands-on so enrollment is limited to 20. If you would like more information on this event call Doris Shepherd at 407-560-5600 x 1161.

The leaders for the workshop are Rob Allen, i.d.e.a.s. Chief Storytelling Officer and Rick Stone, i.d.e.a.s. StoryAnalytics Master. Cost is $995 for this two day intensive.

Friday, August 8, 2008

Proof of the Power of Story

In a recent National Storytelling Magazine there was an article by Kendall Haven who has just written "Story Proof: The Science Behind the Startling Power of Story". In the book he sought to prove "that stories are more efficient and effective structural vehicles when used to motivate, or to teach and communicate factual, conceptual, and tacit information. Stories belong as the bedrock of management, leadership, education, outreach, and general communication efforts."

I have not read the book as of yet but through the article he refers to much of the research he conducted or found to support his hypothesis. Based on the work he has done it looks like he has proven his point beyond doubt and that businesses and others would be wise to look at their communication efforts through the lens of story.

You can bet this book is on my must read list. When I complete it I will blog more about it.

www.carolmon.com

Tuesday, August 5, 2008

5 Telling Tips

I just got a link to a New York Times blog article on "5 Tips for Telling Better Stories". The tips are interesting but what I liked was the note about the "increasingly popular storytelling movement". The article also talks about how we all use stories in our day-to-day happenings. If you get a chance check it out, it's cool that the New York Times is talking about storytelling and not just for kids. Try this link but if it doesn't work (I had a problem linking directly) just go to the New York Times site and type in the title.

http://shiftingcareers.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/08/03/5-tips-for-telling-better-stories/?scp=1&sq=5%20tips%20for%20telling%20better%20stories&st=cse

Thursday, July 31, 2008

Another way to look at stories

I recently had the pleasure of sitting in on a Bruce Wilkinson lecture. He delivered a lot of good information but there was one thing that really rang true for me. He said "If a picture is worth a thousand words then a story is worth a thousand pictures."

I agree whole heartedly with his sentiment. A good story not only helps communicate your message but makes if far more likely that your listener will actually remember it.

www.carolmon.com

Friday, July 25, 2008

Anecdote Circles

Below is a link to an e-book that covers the topic of how to set up an Anecdote Circle. There is a lot of great information included especially why AC's are important and how they can help organizations. In my own work I have see the power of the story sharing that can occur.

http://www.anecdote.com.au/files/Ultimate_Guide_to_ACs_v1.0.pdf

Frequently a problem with story sharing can be a time hog, someone who goes on and on. Rarely have I experienced this but it is always a possibiltiy and controlling it as a facilitator can be tricky. The authors offer a great technique for taming the hog. In a circle, place the over talkative person next to you, not across the circle, apparently this discourages the overbearing. Great idea, I can't wait to try it at my next sharing.

www.carolmon.com

Thursday, July 24, 2008

Humans Think in Story Format

Below is a link to a medical study done supporting the theory that humans order and retain information in story form. The article appeared in Medical News Today. The experiment was conducted to see if people would break down information into bite size chunks to help process it. Specifically they tested for what they call "event structure perceptions". The test subjects naturally broke down the information into smaller chunks or events. Much like stories are broken down into segments making it easier to remember the various points. Here is the link.

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/69609.php

Let me know what you think.

www.carolmon.com

Monday, July 21, 2008

Face-to-Face Storytelling

I just received an announcement about a face-to-face storytelling event on August 13. Although this event is not face-to-face that will be the subject discussed on this phone conference. The description on the website is: Face-to-face - exploring the advantages of live, in-person interaction to generate new ideas and create engagement among your most valuable players.

The website is below if you are interested in learning more about Worldwide Story Work or register for the teleconfernce.

http://worldwidestorywork.ning.com/events/event/show?id=1105993%3AEvent%3A12523

Sunday, July 13, 2008

Copywriting with stories

A friend sent me a link to an e-book by Charles Brown, "The Plot Thickens: Why Case Studies Create New Customers, How to Sell Your Products or Services Using Story Telling Techniques". If you are looking for a different and proven method of selling then you will want to check out the following link.

http://dynamic-copywriting.net/Plotthinkenspdf.pdf

Let me know what you think. Mr. Brown makes some great points and breaks down the process making it easy to start thinking AND writing in story form.


Happy reading
wwww.carolmon.com

Thursday, July 10, 2008

Sales Stories

Yesterday I caught a short bit on the Today Show about the 105 year birthday of Harley Davidson. Tiki Barber was doing the reporting and visted the Harley plant. There the spokeswoman, when asked you must have some stories here, replied "We have 105 years of stories." As they toured around the museum she told short narratives about the various hogs, engines, bike parts etc.

Funny thing is that I am not a bike fan and can't imagine owning one but after watching this report (story) I wanted to be part of the experience, riding down the open road, part of the fun, the history. Story gave me the facts but more importantly it gave me the emotional experience and I wanted that to continue.

Harley Davidson knows it has a good story and it's personnel know how to use those stories to help sales.

What stories does your company have? How can you leverage them to increase sales?

www.carolmon.com

Tuesday, July 1, 2008

The Moth

Just today a friend sent me a note on The Moth. For traditional tellers this may be a bit of a stretch for what a story is but for business and casual tellers this group might be just the spark you need.

The basic concept is that non-professional performers are asked to contribute personal stories limited to 5 minutes. Essentially people are taken out of the audience and get a chance to share their tale. This is pretty much the grass roots of storytelling, people sitting around in the evenings sharing stories. It is fun, interesting and a great way to build community. Check out their website for more information www.themoth.org.

You just may pick up a few tips for telling your business story that helps build a cohesive, highly-productive team.

Good luck
Carol
www.carolmon.com

Friday, June 27, 2008

All Kinds of Stories

I was reading SpeakernetNews, an online newsletter when I came across the following tidbit from Lynda McDaniel (lynda_mcd@msn.com).


Storytelling in promotional materials — Lynda McDaniel

Speakers are great storytellers, but they often forget to use stories in their writing and promotional materials. They know that the stories they tell go straight to the heart. Same is true in writing. Stories tap into our emotions and don’t require the processing that more formal writing does. When you promote yourself, share a story about John, who wrote you after your speech and told you how his life had changed. Or Mary, who contacted you from her new job — thanks, in part, to your motivation. You’ve got success stories that will bring you even more success.


Obviously this is geared towards speakers but the same is true for anyone with promotional materials. And don't limit it to just the written material, those 30 second introductions could become the customer of the week story. Crafted properly, 4 lines in less than 30 seconds can tell the story. People will remember the story, enough stories and people get the whole picture of the services you offer.

carolmon@carolmon.com

Sunday, June 22, 2008

Build the Team

This week I gained a new client. She works for a company that requires all new employees to present themselves at a staff meeting, thereby allowing her new co-workers to get to know her. She is panicked about this and asked for help telling her story.

What a great way to build bonds and a team. It doesn't matter whether it is a large or small operation the work group is generally small and giving everyone an opportunity to get to know the new kid on the block is a great way to speed up the process of building team confidences. The stories do not need to be formal but authentic. Informal is best, it is the sharing and getting to know one another that helps build the team, it creates a shared experience much like Outward Bound does without the expense or danger of a ropes course.

It reminds me of a piece in Lou Holtz's book, "Wins, Losses, and Lessons" He recounts a problem he had with a very talented team. He took over and expected to do well because of the depth of talent. At the end of the season the team had the worst season record in the program's 108 history. Things went from bad to worse when at least two team members were arrested on drug charges. He asked how the team could trust him so little that no one felt comfortable telling him what was going on. After an extended silent period one of the players said "Coach it's not you I don't trust, its my teammates." Wow, there was the problem, a team with no internal trust; no wonder they could not play together.

After that incident every evening practice started with 4 or 5 players standing and telling a bit of their story so that the team could really get to know each other. That season the team went on to a bowl game. Stories can build trust and team cohesiveness whether on the field or in the corporate office. Think about how you can use stories in your work, business or office. It just might be the best thing you do for your bottom line this year.

Carol Mon
www.carolmon.com

Saturday, June 14, 2008

Story as Persuasion

Last night I caught the end of Robin Williams' movie "RV". The character played by Robin Williams was about to lose his job when he was brought into a merger meeting. His co-worker stood to deliver the presentation and began spewing a lot of facts and figures. The principals of the other company asked what was in it for them other than money. The presenter was flummoxed and started sputtering. Williams stood and began to tell a STORY of what the world used to be like and how even just a little bit of the world could be like that again. The end result the smaller company was interested and agreed to more talks. Story persuaded.

Remember that power when you have to deliver a presentation especially if you are looking for buy-in to an idea. Your story may not be as well scripted as Robin's but that's okay, a so-so story told well has the same impact as a great story told in a so-so manner. Learn to craft and tell great stories; you'll be unstoppable!

Need help, www.carolmon.com

Monday, June 9, 2008

Stories for Persuassion

Recently I was writing an article for an NSA newsletter and it reminded me of Stephen Denning's book, "The Leader's Guide to Storytelling". One of the gems I found in this book was his description of using story to persuade.

He explains how he went to senior management with an idea and got no where with his facts and stats presentation. He regrouped and tried again with some other members of the senior management team but this time he used stories. Voila, his ideas were accepted and supported.

I made it sound simple and straight forward here; he goes into much more detail but the bottom line is: stories work. And although his explanation is much more involved the process of finding the narrative and crafting it is not. With a little practice everyone can tell a persuassive story.

It does help if you have a telling buddy that you can practice on and get some feedback from. If you need help with that let me know. I wish you the best of luck with your story.

www.carolmon.com

Wednesday, June 4, 2008

Resumes vs Stories

Dale Dauten writes a column called "The Corporate Curmudgeon" for the Hartford Business Journal. I enjoy his column and read it faithfully. This week I was especially interested in his article because it was entitled "I Don't Have a Resume; I have a Story". How perfect!

Dale goes on to "tell" the story of a business coach's work with someone who had a disastrous job history. To complicate the job search further was the fact that the man was also a recovering alcoholic in his mid 50's. The coach, Hustad, had his client develop a "story card". When approaching possible employers he simply said "I don't have a resume, I have a story" and then handed them his story card. On the card the client's story was told, the good, the bad and the ugly. Also included was a note on how he could help the company. The result was the man received several job offers and landed a job far better than he had hoped for.

Wow, as I read this article it proved once again the power and connection of story. For the last few years I have been presenting to a local re-employment group. The focus of that work is to get the job seekers to use narrative more effectively in the interview process. Every time an interviewer asks "Tell me about", you should answer in story format. The whole process becomes much easier and less stressful when viewed as a conversation, not an interrogation.

Think about that the next time you find yourself interviewing (on either side of the table). Put your answers in the form of a short story and don't be afraid to engage the other person based on something in the story. Stories put people at ease and information will flow more readily. As an interviewer you might gain valuable insight into a candidate. Insight that might have been masked by nerves or a too polished interview style.

If you would like to hear more about how to incorporate story into the interview process give me a call.

www.carolmon.com

Thursday, May 29, 2008

Organizational Narratives

Thirsty Fish is a company that works with other organizations on helping them find and tell their stories. Recently one of the partners was interviewed and this is part of what he had to say on the use of stories for your business

"Storytelling is an essential tool to activate and accelerate your efforts, whether they are related to fundraising, advocacy, or internal change. In the end, stories will allow you to succeed faster and in a manner that has people invested in a collective future...Storytelling is a leadership philosophy. Look at any organizational challenge through the lens of narrative; I guarantee you will discover new insights and solutions." - Michael Margolis, Thirst Fish.

He is absolutely correct with the power and uses of stories, to read the whole interview with Michael,http://hano-hawaii.org/calendar/2008-hano-conference/michael-margolis-interview/


www.carolmon.com

Wednesday, May 28, 2008

Sidney Poitier

This past weekend I was killing some time at my sister's and picked up "The Measure of a Man" by Sidney Poitier. In the introduction Mr. Poitier talks about some of the changes he has seen in his life spending about a page on the importance of story, family lore, folk lore. I wish I could give you the exact quotes here but my sister is not finished with her copy and I have not yet gotten a copy. I will eventually read the whole book and give you my impressions on his use of story. I'm looking forward to it since he understands the power and influence stories have on all of us human beings.

If you get a chance and read the book or at least look at his discussion on story be sure to post something here.

Thursday, May 22, 2008

What is Story

Today I was reading a copy of "Fast Company". The article was talking about all the videos on the web and what it takes to have a video. According to the article if you have a story you have a video. We all have stories so I guess we all can have videos.

It made me think though what is a story? A broad definition of story would include videos, movies, music, books, poetry etc. Anecdotes, while not always full blown stories, should be included on this list too. It is this type of story that is most often used in business. Learning from someone else's successes or failures, and seeing your own struggles in others is the essence of the power of story.

Not all storytellers will agree with my definition of story but I think they will all agree with the power behind the tales. Stories make our messages memorable no matter what the format so be sure to incorporate story in your communications.

www.carolmon.com

Monday, May 19, 2008

Story at Work Conference Notes

Two weeks ago the Story at Work Conference was held in DC. From the reviews I've received it seems to have been another great success. To help all those who could not attend this year (me included) they have sent a link to some of the sessions that were recorded. Check it out, I plan to listen in.

Here is the link: http://www.storyatwork.com/.

As always you can reach me at
www.carolmon.com

Sunday, May 18, 2008

Many Uses for one Story

This week I was working with a client on her story. She ran through the story and it sounded stilted and quite frankly a bit "bookish". At one point I asked her how she knew something was true, did she have research to back up her claim. "No", she said, "I lived it, that really happened to me"! Viola, I realized what the problem was, she was trying to make an emotional appeal to persuade and was not using her own emotions. With a few quick changes I had her tell me HER story soon I was listening to a friend tell me about a problem and how I could help to solve the problem and avoid it in the future. It was no longer a dry sales pitch.

When we finished that story we moved on to her second one. I convinced her instead of trying to create a whole new story she could use the same story and just emphasize different points. For instance the first version was to be used to sell programs to colleges. The second story was to be used to enlist the help of companies. By simply showing the pain (different pains) that was being solved for both by her programs she could practice and polish one story for both presentations.

Think about that next time you need to pitch an idea to different audiences. Use the same story and emphasize different points to solve the pain of your client.

Any questions let me know, www.carolmon.com

Wednesday, May 14, 2008

Anansi Boys

I've said it before, we all tell stories, but what we need to realize is that not everyone tells them well. There are lots of ways to learn to craft and tell a better story. One such way is by reading fiction.



An interesting, although a bit unrealisitc, is the book "Anansi Boys" by Neil Gaiman. Anansi is a trickster spider from Africa that shows up in many African folk tales. There are many websites that describe who Anansi is; some even have the text of stories for your reading pleasure.



Currently I am listening to the CD of "Anansi Boys" (the actor reading is great), it is fun, light. What is especially intriguing are the references to Anansi and the inclusion of several of the African tales. So far we've met two brothers, one's name is Spider and is summoned by Fat Charlie (the other brother) by simply asking a spider, any spider, to speak with his brother. I can't wait to see/hear what the author does with this slightly magical twist



Listening, reading, telling, all good ways to learn the rhythm and techniques to convey your message wrapped in a story. The great part is you can enjoy the tale and by repetition begin to understand the mechanics of constructing a powerful narrative of your own to make your message memorable.



Corporate Storyteller, Carol Mon

www.carolmon.com

Thursday, May 8, 2008

Never Eat Alone

Yesterday I was reading Keith Ferrazzi's book "Never Eat Alone" which is about the importance of networking. There are lots of tips on building a network and using it to help yourself and more importantly help others. Keith is a man who understands the importance of storytelling to communications.

Periodically throughout the book Keith identifies people who are super connectors, they seem to know everyone. On page 220 he adds the Dalai Lama profile into the Connectors' Hall of Fame. A couple quotes that point to the power of story,

"The answer: Powerful content communicated in a compelling story can energize your network to help achieve your mission."
"The Dalai Lama doesn't have a single degree. He does, however, deliver a simple but profound message of world peace and compassion packaged incolorful stories and anecdotes - a message that earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989."
"The most gripping stories are those concerning identity - who we are, where we've come from, and where we are going."

Ferrazzi is not a storyteller per se but he definitely grasps the power of story and uses anecdotes generously throughout the book. Not just a master networker but a master storyteller/communicator too.

If you do any networking to increase business I strongly suggest you read this book.

Tuesday, May 6, 2008

Golden Fleece Conference

This weekend there is a conference in DC for people who use or want to use more stories in their business communications. The organization sponsoring it is Storyatwork.com. Check out their site and they have a lot of ideas.



We all tell stories every day, learning to tell great stories takes some time. We all can learn, you just have to spend a little time and practice. Constructing stories also is something we do from an early age, learning to construct powerful stories also takes some practice. Learn to harness the power of story and your communication and persuassion abilities will soar.



Attending conferences on story use is one way to learn but practicing on your own or with a coach are also ways to speed the learning process.



Good luck with your tales.

Monday, May 5, 2008

Happy Cinco de Mayo

As I sit here and keep hearing celebrations taking place for Cinco de Mayo it reminds me how holidays can make great story lead ins for ice breaking. Whether you find yourself at a cocktail party, networking event or just needing to make small talk little known holidays can be just the ticket. There are several sites and even books that list days of celebrations and some stories behind them. Think about ways that you can share this information with people you are just meeting or are looking to get to know better. If you have a personal story tied to the day even better. Image the stories Caesar tells (where ever he happens to be) every March 15th!

So, do you celebrate Cinco de Mayo? Are you wondering why we Americans make such a big deal about the Mexican Independence day? There is a story there, find it or create your own version and share it with others.

Adios.

Friday, May 2, 2008

27th Annual Festival Wrap Up

Well, it always takes me awhile to process the whole weekend of stories but I think I have finally done that. Last weekend was the 27th Annual Connecticut Storytelling Festival. It started as just a one day event of stories and has grown to be 3 days and inlcudes workshops as well as stories.

Saturday morning was a wonderful mix of tales and music. I can't say that I enjoyed all the performances but that is the beauty of the event, wait 10 minutes and the teller changes. Margaret Read MacDonald had one of the most popular workshops, teaching beginning storytelling. Another great "workshop" was the performances of Ann Izard award winning books. The room was overflowing and everyone got what they came for.

Saturday night was a relaxing concert with three masterful tellers. Okay, two masterful ones, I was a bit disappointed in the the third but that is bound to happen from time to time, you can't love everyone.

Next year the festival is the last weekend in April. Jay O'Callahan will be the headliner so mark your calendars and if you're in Connecticut plan on stopping by.

Tuesday, April 29, 2008

Article on Stories in Business

I received the following link to an article about storytelling in law practices. Although the legal profession is mentioned and how to use stories to garner more clients has a paragraph most of the article is simply about how to create and use stories in the business world. It is well worth the read for anyone who is not convinced that stories have a place in the fast paced world of Inc.'s or doesn't know when a good story is appropriate. Let me know what you think of the artilce and if you have any questions on finding, creating and delivering your own business stories.

http://www.abanet.org/lpm/lpt/articles/mkt04081.shtml

Thursday, April 24, 2008

Michael Scott Karpovich

On Monday the 21st, Michael spoke to the CT chapter of the NSA (National Speaker's Association) about how to use stories in your presentations. He was brilliant, even if he is brain damaged. That is right he had a traumatic birth leaving him brain damaged resulting in severe learning disabilities and dyslexia. With determination and love from his parents he has overcome all this and has had a very successful career as an orator for the past 30 years.

His signature story is full of emotion (happy, sad, fear, joy, triumph). Including emotion is key to connecting with your audience which is why personal stories are powerful. Emotions are where the real power of a story is. Most people get hung up on the fact that they need sad stories to make an impact but that is just wrong. Any emotion is what is needed and the more different emotions, think roller coaster, the more memorable the message will be.

He also reminded us that even well known stories that by some standards have been overused by speakers may in fact still be new to many in the audience. You can never assume everyone in the audience is familiar with the story especially with the diversity in most audiences. More on this later.

Saturday, April 19, 2008

Upcoming Events

Next weekend at this time I will be happily immersed in story. It is the 27th Annual Connecticut Storytelling Festival. Really geared more for education and librarians there is always something a business storyteller can take away because it is not just performances. Saturday afternoon is full of workshops ranging from beginning storytelling to more advanced uses of music within your story.

If you are in Connecticut it is worth the trip to New London (full details at http://www.connstorycenter.org/). If you are elsewhere there are storytelling conferences and festivals all over including one in Washington DC geared specifically towards people who use stories to improve business communications. Search the web or keep your eyes open for local events listed in your newspapers and community calendars.

Friday, April 18, 2008

Randy Pausch

Last week there was this amazing story on television about a man named Randy Pausch. I had heard part of his "Last Lecture" and was intrigued so I watched the special. Randy is a man who was diagnosed with advanced pancreatic cancer and given 3-6 months to live. He has defied the odds and lived much longer than that, I beleive mostly because he has a great attitude and is living life to the fullest. His is a great uplifting story.

As inspiring as his story is what really hit home for me was when he said "Don't give people advise on how to live their lives, tell them a story and they'll figure it out." Randy echoed what many cultures around the world have known for thousands of years. Here in the United States we seemed to have lost touch with the power of a story. What a shame. Although I am heartened to see many websites and events geared to storytelling in its many forms.

We all can learn much from Randy and his story. If you haven't heard his last lecture yet, I urge you to search the web for a copy. It is well worth the time.